Choose the word that is the most appropriate synonym of "abhor".
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Correct Answer
Hate
Explanation
The question asks for the most appropriate synonym of the word "abhor". The verb "abhor" means to regard with disgust and hatred, or to loathe something intensely. Therefore, "hate" is the exact synonym among the choices. The word stems from the Latin prefix ab- (meaning away) and horrere (meaning to shudder), literally translating to shuddering away from something in disgust.
The other options are incorrect because they represent the exact opposite meaning of the target word. Option 1 (Like), Option 2 (Adore), and Option 4 (Love) are all antonyms of "abhor," as they denote positive feelings of affection, preference, or high regard.
Key Points
Paying attention to word roots can help you unlock the intensity of a word on your exam paper. Since "abhor" shares a root with "horror," it indicates an extreme negative emotion, making it easy to eliminate positive options like love, adore, or like.